The Aesthetic Companion to Film Art – Fifth Edition

Now in its fifth edition, Frank Beaver’s Dictionary of Film Terms has become an indispensable reference tool for the study of films and filmmaking. This trusted and practical handbook clearly and concisely defines the essential terms of film analysis and film art, with a special focus on the aesthetic parameters and values of filmmaking.The updated and expanded edition includes new definitions ranging from «bullet-time» optical effects, to the coming-of-age narrative, and LED lighting technology in science fiction films such as Gravity. More than 200 film title references not cited in previous editions have been added. Many classic and contemporary photo stills are included to illustrate terms. Extensive cross-referencing among individual definitions ensures easy access to interrelated terms, and a comprehensive topical index relates to larger concepts of film art.This up-to-date and comprehensive resource is a useful companion for film students and filmgoers, who will find it illuminating in its range and clarity.

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I am deeply indebted to the following individuals for their invaluable contributions to the evolution of this 5th edition of Dictionary of Film Terms. First to Mary Savigar of Peter Lang Publishing for her advice on new, contemporary terms that would bring the dictionary into the present, and for her astute and precise editing of the final manuscript. It was again a great benefit and pleasure to have Mary’s editorial skills at hand. I also must again acknowledge Daniel Madaj for his impeccable preparation of the manuscript and for the arduous creation of the four concluding index entries, which help increase the dictionary’s referential value. Thank you to Phil Hallman, Film Studies Field Librarian at the University of Michigan, for his assistance in selecting new photographs that would bring the dictionary’s film entries up-to-date. For their ongoing encouragement I offer gratitude to Prof. Mick Hurbis-Cherrier of Hunter University, to Prof. Michael Frierson of the University of North Carolina-Greensboro, and to Sultan Sharrief, award-winning filmmaker and media educator. All three were former students of mine at the University of Michigan. The staff of the British Film Institute Library in London provided gracious research assistance. Also ← xv | xvi → in London I profited from the good advice of Eleanor, Abigail, and Charles Smith, ages 19, 16, and 11, who told me about films they had seen that they thought fit well as new entries in existing definitions. I might have been surprised by their insights, but then they are my grandchildren,...

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